Mississippi State Bulldogs Prepare for Home Opener Against Arizona State

Starkville, Mississippi, September 2, 2025

News Summary

The Mississippi State Bulldogs are gearing up to host the Arizona State Sun Devils in their home opener at Davis Wade Stadium. Following a strong season opener victory against Southern Miss, the Bulldogs aim to maintain their momentum. Head coach Jeff Lebby emphasizes the role of fan support in creating an energizing atmosphere, coinciding with a significant investment in stadium upgrades. The team, currently ranked 22nd, looks to showcase their improvements as they face a formidable opponent. The game invites fans to wear black in a ‘blackout’ show of support.

Starkville, Mississippi – The Mississippi State Bulldogs football team is set to host the ranked Arizona State Sun Devils in their highly anticipated home opener at Davis Wade Stadium on September 2, 2025, starting at 6:30 p.m. CT. Following a strong season opener where the Bulldogs defeated Southern Miss by a significant margin, the team is geared up to build on their momentum against a formidable opponent.

MSU head coach Jeff Lebby has emphasized the importance of fan support in creating an electric atmosphere during games. To enhance the game-day experience, the university invested $9 million in upgrades to Davis Wade Stadium over the past year. These upgrades include state-of-the-art LED lights, an improved audio system, and other technological advancements intended to elevate the fan experience.

Quarterback Blake Shapen expressed how vital the home crowd will be during this particular game, known as a “blackout game,” where fans are encouraged to wear black to show their support. Shapen noted the hard work the team has put in during the offseason and their eagerness to prove themselves following last year’s disappointing 2-10 season. He underlined the necessity of showcasing the progress they have made as a team with another solid victory against a ranked opponent.

Currently, the Bulldogs hold the 22nd rank in the FBS according to 247Sports, aided by a successful recruitment strategy that has secured 23 commitments for the class of 2026. The recruitment efforts have persisted despite last season’s challenges, showcasing the program’s resilience and forward-thinking approach. Among the anticipated commitments is local standout Jaiden Taylor, who led Noxubee County in receiving last season, reflecting the strong potential for the Bulldog’s future roster.

The team has also fortified its roster significantly, attracting several new commitments for both offensive and defensive lines, addressing previous concerns, particularly within the defensive line and skill positions. This strengthening of the roster indicates the team’s dedication to improvement and competitive excellence in the upcoming season.

MSU players are highly motivated, and there’s an overarching desire to create an unforgettable game night experience. The Bulldogs’ coaching staff urges fans to fill the stands and contribute to an uplifting and energizing environment at Davis Wade Stadium, expecting nothing short of a remarkable turnout that mirrors the excitement for the upcoming matchup with Arizona State.

About Mississippi State Football

Mississippi State football has a storied history and boasts a dedicated fan base. With a commitment to growth and improvement, the program continues to enhance its facilities and attract top talent, making it a competitive force in college football.

Game Details

• Opponent: Arizona State Sun Devils
• Date: September 2, 2025
• Time: 6:30 p.m. CT
• Location: Davis Wade Stadium, Starkville, MS

Key Features

• Season Opener Result: Bulldogs defeated Southern Miss
• Stadium Upgrades: $9 million investment including LED lights and audio system
• Current Ranking: 22nd in FBS (247Sports)
• 2026 Commitments: 23 recruits including local standout Jaiden Taylor

FAQ

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Mississippi State University Football Team Triumphs
Mississippi High School Football Scores Recap
Kyle Ferrie Breaks Mississippi State Field Goal Record
Mississippi State Football Gears Up for Home Opener
Starkville Prepares for Week 2 College Football Clash
Mississippi State Kicks Off Exciting Football Season
Discipline Concerns Rise in Mississippi College Football Teams
Shooting Incident in Starkville Leaves Victim Critical
Davis Wade Stadium Undergoing Major Renovations
Starkville Police Arrest Suspect in Attempted Murder Case

Additional Resources

• Hail State: We Need Everybody to Be There
• SI: 5 Takeaways from Starkville’s Win
• C Dispatch: Bulldogs Gain Momentum on Recruiting Trail
• Clarion Ledger: Mississippi State vs Missouri Updates
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Mississippi State University

Author: STAFF HERE STARKVILLE WRITER

The STARKVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREstarkville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Starkville, Oktibbeha County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cotton District Arts Festival, Bulldog Bash, and Mississippi State University homecoming celebrations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Starkville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Mississippi State University Extension Service, plus leading businesses in education and agriculture that power the local economy such as Mississippi State University and Starkville Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.